Students and community members can give their input on what they want in the UA’s next president at forums this week.

The Arizona Board of Regents Presidential Search Committee will hold town hall-style meetings on campus Thursday and Friday. Participants are invited to share the qualities they seek in the new president as well as bring up issues they think he or she will face.

The committee, made up of regents and representatives, has outlined characteristics of candidates. A search firm is also working with the committee throughout the process.

Open forums will allow the community to participate, said Regent Rick Myers, co-chair of the committee. Attendees do not have to submit comments ahead of time, allowing them to participate freely, he said.

“We’re going to be in listening mode,” Myers said. “We want to get as many views as possible.”

President Eugene Sander said he is not directly involved in the process but encourages students to attend and meet members of the committee and see the search process.

“It’ll show the search committee you’re interested,” Sander said.
The forums will also help gauge the priorities and expectations of those who are affected by the university, Myers said.

“Having a strong UA helps create a multi-faceted, vibrant community,” Myers said. “It improves the quality of life.”

The feedback will be recorded and used to guide the committee’s conversations, Myers said. It will also be given to the new president.

“We want to close the loop in the end,” Myers said. “It’s a window into the thinking of the state and community.”